Abstract

An evaluation of roleplay: A theater production to address sexual violence on tulane university campus

Julia Fleckman, PhD, MPH1 and Komal Brown, MPH, MS2
(1)Tulane University School of Public Health & Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, (2)Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA

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Campus sexual violence is a major public health issue, with approximately 11.2% of all students experiencing rape or sexual assault. Peer education theater has shown promise as a sexual violence prevention strategy. However, more evidence is needed; little is known about the influence of theater in shifting attitudes and norms regarding sexual orientation and other factors associated with sexual violence. In response to a sexual violence climate survey conducted on Tulane University campus in 2017, the university and a local theater company, Goat in the Road Productions (GRP), partnered to develop and produce the original theatrical work, Roleplay. The purpose of Roleplay was to explore student experiences, specifically as they relate to sexual assault and consent on campus. Undergraduate student writers and actors partnered with Tulane Theater and GRP to develop Roleplay over the course of a year. The current study is an evaluation of Roleplay as a potential avenue for sexual violence prevention on campus. Results include a process evaluation to share lessons learned in the development and implementation of Roleplay for other college campuses to emulate the process. Additionally, an outcome evaluation included a pre-post test of student audience members (N=272) to assess shifts in rape myth acceptance heteronormative attitudes and beliefs. Using paired t-tests, there were significant decreases in rape myth acceptance and attitudes supporting heteronormative attitudes and beliefs. Results provide a basis for replication of the devised theater model as a sexual violence prevention tool for other campuses.

Administer health education strategies, interventions and programs Conduct evaluation related to programs, research, and other areas of practice Implementation of health education strategies, interventions and programs Planning of health education strategies, interventions, and programs Social and behavioral sciences